In our last blog post, Dr. Aerni discussed ways you can strengthen your tooth enamel to protect against cavities. In this post, Dr. Aerni will examine which dietary choices are most likely to stain your tooth enamel and cause tooth discoloration.
While your tooth enamel is extremely strong and usually translucent, it is covered in tiny (actually microscopic) ridges and valleys that can trap residue from food and drinks. When these areas on your teeth trap residue, your teeth begin to look discolored from the dark pigments left behind.
Below, Dr. Aerni lists several drinks and foods that can cause tooth discoloration:
• Coffee
• Tea
• Colas
• Tomato sauce/juice
• Popsicles
• Citric Fruit
• Foods that contain food coloring
For more foods and drinks like this, click here.
Something to keep in mind when determining if a food will stain your teeth is that, if it would stain white clothes, it has the potential to stain your teeth. In addition to the foods mentioned above, foods and drinks that contain a lot of acids can actually wear your enamel down, and expose your dentin. When your dentin becomes exposed, it causes your teeth to look a more yellowish color.
Have you developed tooth discoloration?
The best way to ensure your teeth stay bright and white is to maintain visits to the dentist, and to keep good oral hygiene habits. If your teeth are already discolored, and you would like to receive tooth whitening, feel free to schedule an appointment at our office in Strongsville. Whether your teeth are already bright and white, or you plan on starting a tooth whitening system, you should be conscientious about what you eat. Eating these types of food after your treatment can negate the results you are looking to achieve.
For more oral health and hygiene tips, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.